A Sun Country Airlines flight scheduled to operate from Milwaukee to Orlando was forced to divert shortly after departure on December 29, 2025, following a tail strike during takeoff.
Flight SY201 was operated by a Boeing 737-800 registered N851SY. The aircraft departed Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport from runway 25L at approximately 09:22 local time (15:22 UTC). During the takeoff roll and rotation, the aircraft’s tail contacted the runway surface.
Despite the tail strike, the aircraft continued its initial climb. The crew subsequently stopped the climb at flight level 270 and elected to divert to Chicago O’Hare International Airport as a precaution. The aircraft landed safely on runway 28C at O’Hare about 40 minutes after departing Milwaukee.
The Federal Aviation Administration later confirmed the incident, reporting minor damage to the aircraft. In a statement, the FAA said: “Aircraft incurred a tail strike on departure and post-flight inspection revealed damage to skid shoe, Milwaukee, WI.”
After landing in Chicago, the aircraft remained on the ground for approximately three hours while inspections and checks were completed. Once cleared, the Boeing 737 continued the flight to Orlando and subsequently returned to normal service.
No injuries were reported, and Sun Country Airlines stated that the crew followed standard safety procedures throughout the event.
